Why ind'nt ump for politicians?

Date: 31 May 2005

The PM seems to believe that an independent umpire to set wages for politicians is a good thing - but he wants to abolish the independent umpire for minimum wage workers - Tim Ferrari, the LHMU Assistant National Secretary pointed out today.

" The PM stood up in Parliament yesterday and defended the politicians own independent umpire - the Remuneration Tribunal

" But the Federal Government wants to abolish the independent umpire for low-wage workers - and is currently arguing against a $26.60 a week minimum wage rise in front of the umpire - the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, " Tim Ferrari said.

" How come the Howard Government hates the independent umpire for minimum wage workers - the Industrial Relations Commission - but seems to think the independent umpire for politicians is AOK?

" Why should LHMU members have to front up to a politically stacked Fair Pay Commission which will do the bidding of their Canberra masters - but watch as those same masters allow an independent body to set their pay rates?" Tim Ferrari said.

The LHMU organises a wide range of minimum wage workers including cleaners, child care workers, aged care workers, health workers and security guards.

For media comment:

Tim Ferrari, LHMU Assistant National Secretary

02 8204 7224 or

0425 242 727

For further information

Contact:	Andrew Casey
Union:	Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union
Phone:	8204 7206
Fax:	92821 4480
Email:	andrewc@lhmu.org.au
WWW:	http://www.lhmu.org.au/

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